Crafting a DIY TBR (to‑be‑read) jar is a wonderfully simple way to make reading feel exciting, playful, and totally screen‑free for kids. Instead of getting stuck choosing what to read next, children can pull a surprise book title or prompt from their jar and let chance decide their next adventure. It turns reading into a game, encourages variety, and gives even reluctant readers a fun nudge toward their next story. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just looking for a creative way to spark more reading at home, this easy TBR jar craft is a brilliant hands‑on activity that helps kids feel more independent, inspired, and eager to dive into their books.
TBR Book Jar
This fun TBR jar is a great way to keep track of all the books you’re eager to dive into. Simply write each unread title on a slip of paper and drop it into the jar. Whenever you need inspiration, pull one out at random and start reading! You can even add a rating with star stickers after finishing each book, then swap jars with friends to keep the reading excitement going
Materials:
- Ribbon
- Stickers
- Luggage Tag
- Pen
- Jar
- Paper
Step 1: Clean your jar and then place on one of the stickers in the centre.
Step 2: Stick on a sticker to a luggage tag, and then write on Books to read...
Step 3: Thread some ribbon through the luggage tag and tie to the jar.
Step 4: Cut some small pieces of paper and then write some book titles on them.
Step 5: Fold and place in the jar.
Step 6: Once you have read one of the books add your rating of the book and swap with friends.
What Makes TBR Jars Great for Kids?
Each item begins with a Guided Link so you can explore more if you want.
- They make choosing books easier — Kids often say “I don’t know what to read next.” A TBR jar removes the pressure by letting chance decide, similar to reading‑prompt games designed to help children find new books.
- They turn reading into a game — Many families and teachers use reading prompts or challenge cards to make reading feel playful, just like printable TBR prompt cards and reading‑challenge activities.
- They encourage variety — Kids can get stuck rereading the same series. Prompts help them branch out into new genres, authors, and topics.
- They support reluctant readers — A simple, low‑pressure system helps kids who struggle with reading motivation by giving them small, achievable goals.
- They build independence — Children feel ownership over their reading choices, which boosts confidence and engagement.
What to Put in a Kids’ TBR Jar
You can fill a TBR jar with:
- Book titles you already own
- Library books to try
- Reading prompts — e.g., “Read a book with an animal,” “Read a book a friend recommends,” or “Read a book with a blue cover.” Prompts like these are commonly used in kids’ reading challenges.
- Genre or theme slips
- Author or series suggestions
You can even mix book titles and prompts for extra variety.
Why Teachers & Parents Love TBR Jars
- They’re screen‑free, hands‑on, and easy to set up.
- They help kids discover new books through playful exploration — similar to interview‑style reading activities that help children build personalised reading lists.
- They work beautifully alongside reading‑challenge sheets, book‑swap days, or classroom reading goals.
- They’re adaptable for ages 6–12 and can be themed for seasons, holidays, or school topics.
Enjoy!
Creating a DIY TBR jar is such a simple, screen‑free way to make reading feel playful and exciting for kids. With just a handful of prompts and a jar full of possibilities, children get to enjoy the surprise of choosing their next story and feel more independent in their reading choices. Whether you use it at home, in the classroom, or as part of a wider reading challenge, this little craft brings joy, variety, and a spark of curiosity to every book‑loving moment.
